Child Protective Services

Racine County has the responsibility to investigate reports of child abuse and neglect and ensure children’s immediate safety. Child Protective Services works with parents/caregivers in making necessary changes to assure that their children are safe and protected.

Definitions of Child Abuse / Neglect

Abuse: any of the following:

Physical injury inflicted on a child by other than accidental means.

Serious physical harm inflicted on an unborn child, including the risk of serious physical harm to the child when born, caused by the habitual lack of self-control of the expectant mother of the unborn child in the use of alcohol beverages, controlled substances or controlled substance analogs, exhibited to a severe degree.

Sexual intercourse, sexual contact, sexual exploitation, causing a child to view or listen to sexual activity, permitting, allowing, or encouraging prostitution, or exposing genitals or pubic area to a child.

Manufacturing methamphetamine in the presence of a child, on the premises of a child’s home, or in a motor vehicle located on the premises of a child’s home.

Emotional damage for which the child’s parent, guardian or legal custodian has neglected, refused or been unable for reasons other than poverty to obtain the necessary treatment or to take steps to ameliorate the symptoms.

Neglect: A child whose parent, guardian or legal custodian neglects, refuses or is unable for reasons other than poverty, to provide necessary care, food, clothing, medical or dental care or shelter so as to seriously endanger the physical health of the child.

Confidentiality

Strict state and federal laws govern CPS investigations. The identity of the reporting person is confidential under the law.

Mandatory Reporters

In order to assist mandatory reporters in understanding their statutory responsibilities, the Racine County Human Services Department has developed the Mandatory Reporter Resource Guide for their use.

To report child abuse or neglect contact:

Racine County Human Services Department

262-638-7720

Staff available 24 hours/day – 7 days/week

If this is an immediate or life-threatening emergency please call 911.